09.04.2007

Straddle carrier topples

The operator of a 12 metre straddle carrier crane was seriously injured when it toppled over at Southampton docks in the UK, on Saturday.

The straddle carrier, one of about 90 at the docks is used to carry containers around the port, collapsed at berth 207 off Western Avenue.

Up to a dozen firefighters arrived to release the trapped driver from his cab. He was then taken by ambulance to Southampton General Hospital.

An ambulance spokesman said the man's condition was described by doctors at the scene as "serious but stable".

A member of the fire crew reported that the crane had totally collapsed and fallen on its side. The crane was traveling at the time but wasn't a carrying a load.